Goldfields, Daylesford & Macedon Ranges
Steeped in the history of colonial gold-rush days, the Goldfields region is as grand and opulent as it was when gold was first discovered in Clunes in 1851.
In a few hectic years, gold changed the course of the region’s social and economic history as prospectors from all over the world arrived and fortunes were made overnight. The towns of Ballarat, Bendigo, St Arnaud, Ararat and Stawell are full of grand Victorian-era architecture and ornate botanical gardens, a testament to the dreams and wealth of those who created them.
One hour east of the Goldfields, the rolling hills and farmland of Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges are dotted with charming towns offering an array of health and beauty treatments, scenic surrounds and gardens, a thriving arts and crafts community and award winning food and wine.
Home to the greatest concentration of naturally occurring mineral springs in Australia and an array of wonderful spa centres, the Daylesford and Hepburn Springs area is noted as a centre for relaxation, health, wellbeing and of course pampering. There are also excellent galleries, antique shops and fine restaurants.
Impressive mansions, striking landscapes and some of Victoria's finest gardens combine to create the old world ambience of the nearby Macedon Ranges. Tour Mount Macedon's heritage gardens, explore the 19th century streetscapes of Woodend and Kyneton lined with galleries, antique shops and craft outlets or visit the legendary Hanging Rock, the haunting backdrop to the Picnic at Hanging Rock book and film.
General Information
| Population of Bendigo | 118,000 |
|---|---|
| Population of Ballarat | 117,000 |
| Population of Daylesford | 2,500 |
Locations
Daylesford
Invigorate body and mind, and reignite your imagination amid the spectacular forests, natural mineral waters and historic villages of the Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region. Find balance and harmony at mineral spas and wellness retreats, sample exquisite food and wine at restaurants, wineries and country pubs, and be inspired by the vibrant artist community. Pack a picnic and visit the mysterious Hanging Rock or cruise around historic streetscapes, local markets and boutiques brimming with art, craft and antique treasures.
Bendigo - Join the Goldrush!
Bendigo is a vibrant regional centre for its surrounding towns and villages in Central Victoria. One of the world's greatest gold rushes has taken place in Bendigo, which is what put Bendigo on the map 150 years ago. From the gold came wealth, and from the wealth came beautiful buildings. The gold rush encouraged many people from around the world to move to Bendigo in the hopes of finding gold. This has made Bendigo a multi-cultural society. At one point the Chinese society in Bendigo made up 20% of the population.
